Cheer squad for kids with disabilities forming in Antioch

Inspired by watching her older sisters, little Sydnee Jones wanted to be cheerleader.

But with vision problems and other developmental disabilities, that wasn't likely.

Sydnee's mom, Nicole, a former cheerleader and cheerleading coach, said it broke her heart knowing the 5-year-old couldn't have the same experiences as her siblings.

Not content with the situation, Jones is starting a new cheer squad for kids with special needs.

The Viking Sparkles begin practice in August.

"Watching her sisters cheer, Sydnee wanted to be included, but there was really nothing out there she could feel comfortable with," said Jones, of Lake Villa. "I felt like I wanted to give my daughter and other kids an opportunity to participate."

The new group will be part of the Antioch-based Viking Youth Football and Cheer Association. Currently, 115 girls are in the recreational program. The varsity squad took first place at this year's Recreational Cheer Association tournament in DeKalb.

Jones said this gives kids with disabilities a chance to experience some of what their able-bodied friends do.

"There really is a big need for something like this," Jones said. "They need to be able to shine and get the applause just like the other kids."

Parents will have to pay for the uniforms, but the league will waive the $250 registration for the new members. The team is looking for both boys and girls who want to cheer, Jones said. She's hoping to recruit as many as 15 special needs children. They must be between ages 5-14 and kindergarten through eighth grade.

The Sparkles will cheer alongside the Viking Cheerleaders at a total of four games during the football season, which ends in October. They will also participate in two competitions. Jones said it's not possible to have the Sparkles appear at every game, mainly because of weather.

Jones is getting the word out by posting fliers at Emmons and Hillcrest schools and also has a Facebook page. She said the best way to find them on the social network site is to search for "Antioch Viking Sparkles" under Facebook groups.

Interested people can also contact her by email at jones39180@comcast.net.